The British Air Force honors the English footballers before the final of the European Championship against Germany with a formation flight with an all-female crew.
A C-130 Hercules transport aircraft and two Typhoon jets will take part in the flyover over London’s Wembley Stadium, the Ministry of Defense in London said. The maneuver is scheduled right after the national anthems.
“I have flown missions with the RAF around the world but this will be the most memorable,” said the Hercules pilot, whose name has been given as Flight Lieutenant Lauren. The performances of the “Lionesses” were inspiring. Lauren has been in the Royal Air Force (RAF) for 12 years and in the past has trained the first Afghan women pilots, among other things. Defense Secretary Ben Wallace spoke of a “pioneering day for English football and women’s sport”.
Prime Minister Boris Johnson is also keeping his fingers crossed for the English team. In a letter to captain Leah Williamson’s team, he acknowledged that the team had made it clear to women and girls across the country “that football isn’t just for boys.” “Your passion for the game, your tenacity in difficult situations and most importantly, your amazing talent on the pitch has already given millions of us a summer of fantastic memories,” Johnson wrote. He is sure that the “Lionesses”, “who hunt ruthlessly as a team”, will also win against Germany.
Queen’s grandson Prince William and his daughter Princess Charlotte (7) cheered on the English women in a clip. “We both wish the Lionesses the best of luck for tonight,” said William, who, as FA president, wanted to follow the game at the stadium. “You played great in the tournament and we always cheered you on.” Charlotte added: “Good luck! I hope you win!”